Fashion News: Q1 2026
Published on 2 April 2026
January
1. France Bans “Forever Chemicals” in Clothing 🇫🇷
France became the first country to ban PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in clothing and textiles, marking a major step in reducing harmful substances in fashion production. The regulation targets widely used water-repellent chemicals linked to environmental and health risks, pushing brands to rethink material innovation and compliance strategies. The move is expected to influence wider EU policy and accelerate safer alternatives across the industry.
Source: SDG
2. Shein Faces Potential EU Investigation 🇨🇳
Fast-fashion giant Shein came under scrutiny as the European Commission signalled a potential EU-wide investigation into product safety and compliance issues. Concerns were raised over illegal products sold on the platform, highlighting increasing regulatory pressure on ultra-fast fashion players operating in Europe. The case reflects a broader shift toward stricter enforcement of consumer protection and sustainability standards.
Source: Reuters
3. Hermès Designer Steps Down After 37 Years 🇫🇷
At Paris Fashion Week, long-time Hermès menswear designer stepped down after nearly four decades, marking a significant leadership transition in luxury fashion. The moment highlights broader generational shifts across major fashion houses, with new creative directions expected to shape future strategies — including sustainability priorities.
Source: Reuters
4. Global Fashion Leaders Gather at Davos 🇨🇭
Fashion leaders joined global policymakers and businesses at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where sustainability, innovation, and responsible growth were key themes. Discussions emphasised the need for fashion to balance economic growth with environmental limits, reinforcing the industry’s role in global climate conversations.
Source: Vogue
5. Second-Hand Fashion Continues to Surge 🌎
The resale market continued its strong growth trajectory in early 2026, driven by younger consumers embracing more affordable and sustainable shopping habits. The expansion of resale platforms reflects a structural shift away from traditional fast fashion and toward circular consumption models.
Source: Vogue
February
6. Fashion Week Designers Push Sustainability Forward 🇬🇧
At London Fashion Week AW26, designers showcased collections built on upcycling, recycled materials, and low-impact production, proving that sustainability can be embedded into creative expression. The shows highlighted how independent designers are often leading innovation in responsible fashion.
Source: Marie Claire
7. EU Moves to Ban Destruction of Unsold Fashion 🇪🇺
The European Commission adopted new measures under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) to ban the destruction of unsold clothing, footwear, and accessories, targeting one of fashion’s most wasteful practices. The rules will apply to large companies from mid-2026, requiring brands to rethink overproduction and improve inventory management. This marks a major step toward circularity in Europe, pushing the industry to prioritise durability, reuse, and more responsible production volumes.
Source: Vegan Fashion Repository
March
8. Global Fashion Supply Chains Face Continued Pressure 🇦🇪
Ongoing geopolitical tensions and market uncertainty continued to impact global fashion supply chains, with brands adapting operations and retail strategies. The developments highlight the fragility of global production systems and the growing need for resilient and more localised supply chains.
Source: Reuters
9. Fashion Industry Falls Behind on Climate Targets 🇪🇺
New analysis revealed that the fashion industry is still lagging behind its climate goals, with emissions reductions not keeping pace with production growth. Reports highlight the need for deeper collaboration with suppliers and stronger investment in renewable energy to meet sustainability commitments.
Source: Vogue
10. ChangeNOW Summit Highlights Fashion Innovation 🇬🇧
At the ChangeNOW climate conference in Paris, fashion was spotlighted as both a contributor to and solution for environmental challenges. Brands and innovators presented new materials and circular solutions, emphasising that scalable tools for sustainability already exist — but need wider adoption.
Source: Vogue